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I've been wanting an e60 M5 for a while now and since I am moving to Germany for a few years will probably get one while I'm there and bring it home when I come back. I knew things would be expensive for it but reading this site all i can think now is F@#$!

is 250 for an oil change and 800 for new spark plugs normal for this? Is it possible or practical to do these things, amongst others, yourself?

You quote what appear to be un-discounted dealer prices. The oil change I believe can usually be either negotiated or couponed down to around $100.

Spark plugs probably could be reduced somewhat too.

At an indépendant, I would expect the $100 to be the asking and the plugs probably around $400 based on my experience with a Sixer.

Can you do it? Absolutely. Neither job is particularly hard. Just get the right tools, some time (allot about an hour for the oil change, and maybe 3-4 for the spark plugs on your first time) ... and a six-pack.

Warranty issues are nil. The dealer, and often their salespeople try to threaten that doing work elsewhere voids warranties. This is false... at least in the US. If the work is done incorrectly, and can be demonstrated to have caused a problem, then it is a problem. But the fact that an indie (or you) did it is not disqualifying. Just keep your receipts so you can prove you did it.

Not sure what specs you are looking for, but there are DIYs all over for most BMWs usual tasks.

If you can find a low mileage M5 go for it. The up keep on these cars can get expensive, but like said before, doing these yourself will save you cash, and your the one touching your car. You'll have more care, and it's always good to be handy and fix things yourself. The downside to the early E60 M5 is major components like to fail on the 2006-2008 models. I just bought a 2006 in November and have maybe driven it 800 miles and already needed to replace the Alternator, flushed power steering fluid, and I have a weird engine whine coming from the engine on some cold starts. Mine has 35,000 miles. They are a bit delicate. If you buy a 2010 you should still have a few months with the original factory warranty. Extended warranties are always an option and I would recommend doing this. Best of luck with your M5!!

Luckily my alternator broke while I was under my BMW's 30 day dealer warranty and they fixed it for free, it was a $1400 job... But before I had them fix it I did some research and the alternator itself wasn't expensive and if you do the job your self, that right there will save you half, if not more. There is online PDF files on most common repairs on our cars. If your handy, and with the proper tools, you should really have no
Issue. My advice is, enjoy your car. Don't be afraid of it breaking down, if your not pushing it to the max every time you drive it, it will last a lifetime. And when something does break, and it will, just keep calm and start doing research.